23.4.12

The subtle shift started a few months ago. Fewer words written from someone else, more words spoken and plans made for myself.

Work. The ultimate four letter word. For years I've lamented that my type of work -- freelance writing -- means no free weekends, no free vacations, no down time spent any way I choose. For me, there's a deadline around every corner and you never say no to an opportunity for more of them.

My inner voice says be lucky you have these contracts at all. It tells me you're lucky and that the work won't always be there. It warns me don't burn bridges and say yes to anything that pays.

But there's a smaller voice that spoke up firmly and confidently those months ago. It said not all paychecks are the same. Not every offer is worth the money it brings through the door. Charge more, accept less, do only what makes you happy.

Cue the earth-shattering breakthrough moment.

Yes. My experience and skills are valuable, especially in a world where content is king and the message must be packaged in a way that motivates those who receive it.

All those words are fancy talk for what I'm seeing in my life: People will pay when present your product as valuable.

Shift!

I have clients instead of contracts. I spend less time writing articles and more time coaching people into identifying their business goals and coaxing out the way they'll connect with consumers. The end product is still content, but it has a face and it brings a relationship.

Fulfillment in a totally new way that allows me to leave my house and leave my computer behind, that leads to happier children, a more connected marriage, and the time to be creative.

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comments:

Kelly, I love this because that's exactly where I am now too. People are so eager for a service yet they're not willing to pay for it, and it undermines our integrity and the value of our work if we accept everything that comes along because we think we have to.

Good for you for realizing that you set your course and that your clients will have to pay for your services because you add value to their product/service. Those who nickel and dime will always find the shortest and cheapest route and no amount of coaching will help them see that these aren't always the best paths to success.

Preserve your sanity and be picky with clientele because it helps you do your best work, and you know that will only help you get more work!

(Sorry if I sound preachy - I think this is my own exercise in making myself believe in the things I just said because I really need it!)

That's an awesome change to make. I work for myself too and I have started learning not every client is meant to be MY client and that when I take on projects I need to be more sure of my own worth. It's so freeing!

Sounds like you have found a good balance between work and family life, even though it something that constantly changes. Opportunity does occur when quality and integrity combine. You are a talented writer, your time is valuable. And that means all of your time.

Congratulations!I love hearing about these breakthroughs. Value is a tricky thing to master and to believe in particularly when it's wrapped up in dollars. So very happy to hear you've realized the real value of your service, time and talents.

Thanks for the encouragement, ladies. I am still defining and refining my professional self, but it definitely helps to believe in my worth and the value I bring to the table. It's been a long time in the learning!

When a good change like this comes--one that is really, really of your own making--that's exactly what you should do: Soak it UP!

There's a shift happening over here, too. It's got something to do with slowing down and setting the tone and waking up and...oh yes, quite big things. I'm excited and scared as hell that I'll make nothing of this something that really wants to come.